ResourcesSmall Business Health Care Hub by JPMorganChase
How to know if you have the right insurance agent
The right agent brings deep knowledge of insurance companies and products, giving you tailored guidance, trusted service, and access to better options for your business.
Choose the right health insurance advisor for your needs
Agents
BUSINESSES OF ALL SIZES, INCLUDING SMALL BUSINESSES
Agents are licensed professionals who represent insurance companies and sell their insurance products. They explain available options, assess your needs and recommend suitable plans. Agents help with applications, policy changes, renewals and claims.
Why choose an agent?
If you know the insurance company you want and need help enrolling, an agent can guide you through the process. They can represent one or multiple insurance companies.
Consider the trade-offs:
ADVANTAGES
- In-depth knowledge of specific insurance products to help design your plan
- Personalized service and advice tailored to your needs
- Strong relationships with insurers, potentially offering better rates.
DRAWBACKS
- Limited to the products offered by the companies they represent
- May not offer the full range of options available in the market
ADVANTAGES
- In-depth knowledge of specific insurance products to help design your plan
- Personalized service and advice tailored to your needs
- Strong relationships with insurers, potentially offering better rates.
DRAWBACKS
- Limited to the products offered by the companies they represent
- May not offer the full range of options available in the market
Fees
Agents typically receive a salary or commission from insurance companies. They may earn commissions from insurers, which they must disclose to you. Be sure to ask about their compensation when you start working with them.
Get started
- Find an insurance agent through your State Department of Insurance or through the SHOP Marketplace.
- Before engaging with an agent, check for any filed complaints using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Consumer Insurance Search System or call your state insurance department. Find this contact information on our State Resources page.
See other health insurance advisor options
Assistance comparing options and administration
- Access to a wide variety of plans from multiple insurers.
- Skilled in comparing options and negotiating rates.
- Help with plan administration, including employee support.
Enhanced HR support for benefits administration
- Health, dental and other benefits usually available to larger companies.
- Manage payroll, withholdings and W-2 forms.
- Lower premiums and administrative costs.
- Reimbursement accounts and wellness programs.
Access to fully insured group plans with tax benefits
- Eligible small businesses can receive tax credits to lower the cost of coverage.
- Offers a range of standardized plans, making it easier to compare options.
- Access to support and guidance through the SHOP marketplace.
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